Motorcycle Repair: Kawasaki Hard to start, crank shaft, cam sprockets

Question
Sorry it took so long for me to get back to you. I have the answers to your questions:

What is the cylinder cpmpression?- both are 41 kPa my books states compression should be 10.7kPa
New rings installed by a (paid) friend: He had the cylinder head on when I arrived and I can't verify they were installed.

Why were the carburetors cleaned four times?- Buddy though they were not cleaned = 2 times, then bike acted like it may have had trash in the needles (none found).

With respect to the attention to install the cams to the procedure in the manual, was the #1 cylinder placed at TDC on the compression stroke when the cams were installed?- My manual states "Position the crankshaft at TDC for #2 (right cyclinder) piston. (?) I have never seen this on any thing I have built. (Being an old Air Force Fighter Crew Chief I followed the manual). Then ask the experts.

Mike
end here past emails follow

From :  <turley_michael_@hotmail.com>
Sent :  Wednesday, June 22, 2005 9:28 PM
To :  <turley_michael_@hotmail.com>
Subject :  AllExperts - Question and Answer
 
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Subject: Kawasaki, 454LTD A1 1985
Question -
Problem: Bike hard to start and when riding it acts like it is running out of power.
Background: New rings and valve job. Cleaned Carbs 4 times. Have 454LTD Kawasaki Manual and timing is just like the manual stated and looks like digram relating to timing marks setup "ie" valves, timing marks,chain links, cam lobes, keyways on cams, crank shaft marking, and EX an IN marks on cam sprockets. Changed fuel tank fuel valve. The only way I could get the bike to run is swap the #1 coil and spark plug wire to the number 2 side. Standard plug wires configation (after trying to start bike for sometime) it would backfire through the carbs. Question: what in the world is going on with my bike?


Mark Shively Answers -
Hi Mike,

What is cylinder compression of both cylinders?

Why was the carburetors cleaned four times?

With respect to the attention to install the cams to the procedure in the manual, was the #1 cylinder placed at TDC on the compression stroke when the cams were installed?

Advise and we can go from here.

I return tech files via email. Include your email as requested.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively  

Answer
Mike,

Cylinder compression is low. The source could be worn cylinders, improperly installed rings, worn rings, or other.

I recommend having a professional Kawasaki tech check your engine. A pro tech can quickly determine the condition of the engine and estimate the cost of repairs.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively